Mission

Overview

>> Leadership

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Oncology Research Expertise

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Memphis Heart ClinicTM

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Outcomes (PROs)

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ABOUT

Experienced Team
Lee S. Schwartzberg, MD, FACP Lee Schwartzberg, MD, FACP
President and Chief Medical Officer
Dr. Schwartzberg practices medical oncology and hematology in private practice in Memphis, Tennessee. Dr. Schwartzberg, senior partner along with Dr. Kurt Tauer, built The West Clinic into a large, very productive oncology practice serving a tri-state area. He attended medical school at New York Medical College, did a residency at Cornell University, and was Chief Hematology-Oncology Resident at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center where he also completed a fellowship. Dr. Schwartzberg has extensive experience in clinical research operations and the development of oncology research networks. He is a Clinical Professor of Medicine at the University of Tennessee College of Medicine and serves as the Editor-in-Chief of the peer-reviewed journal, Community Oncology. Dr. Schwartzberg directs all clinical research initiatives and provides clinical oversight and management for the company. 
Edward J. Stepanski, PhD Edward J. Stepanski, PhD
Chief Operating Officer
Dr. Stepanski brings scientific acumen, the highest academic standards, strong organizational expertise as well as sensitivity to the needs of oncology from both business and clinical perspectives to every ACORN CRO project. Dr. Stepanski joined ACORN as Vice President of Scientific Affairs after spending 20 years in multiple roles in academic medical centers. Immediately prior to joining ACORN, he was Associate Chair, Department of Behavioral Sciences, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago. He is known for his work in sleep disorders, particularly insomnia. Study design, plans, statistical analysis and interpretations fall within the area of Dr. Stepanski's expertise. After overseeing the growth of ACORN's scientific capabilities for two years, he launched ACORN CRO which has consistently exceeded client expectations by providing value-driven, quality solutions and accelerated patient accruals. 
Kristie Lively, RN, BSN Kristie H. Lively, RN, BSN 
Vice President, CRO 
In her role as Vice President and a member of the senior management team, Kristie oversees all aspects of ACORN CRO’s operations and services. She previously served as CRO vice president for a large clinical research organization, conducting community-based clinical trials in oncology and other therapeutic areas.  Her unique skill set encompasses over 15 years of healthcare industry experience with a strong background in quality assurance and operations, including all phases of CRO service operations and management. ACORN CRO customers appreciate her leadership capabilities, commitment to quality, and deep understanding of their needs. Kristie received her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Memphis and holds memberships in Association of Clinical Research Professionals, Society of Quality Assurance, and Drug Information Association. 
Paul A. Phillips Paul A. Phillips
Vice President, Operations
Paul brings ACORN CRO and its clients over 20 years of leadership experience across multiple industries, especially those involved with advanced technology. He is well-versed in information systems and the synchronization of business development, operational efficiency and technology goals. Paul holds Bachelors of Science degrees in Mathematics and Biology from Faulkner University; has completed postgraduate work at the University of Southern Mississippi; and has served as a guest lecturer at Humboldt State University. 
Arthur C. Houts, PhD Arthur C. Houts, PhD
Vice President, Scientific Analysis | Development
Dr. Houts has made important scientific contributions to both SOS and ACORN since their inception by helping develop tools to provide better clinical assessment in cancer care. He also developed a clinical psychology model for community oncology practices. Today, Dr. Houts supervises data analysis and medical writing. In addition to his work in oncology, Dr. Houts has published broadly in adult and child clinical psychology as well as the interdisciplinary field of science studies. Dr. Houts received his PhD from Stony Brook University in 1981 and taught at the University of Memphis from 1981-2003 where he was Professor and Director of Clinical Training. 
Mark S. Walker, PhD Mark S. Walker, PhD
Vice President, Scientific Affairs
Dr. Walker offers sponsors a wealth of expertise from both the clinical and scientific arenas. His responsibilities cover a wide range of scientific activities, including protocol development, preparation of statistical analysis plans for key projects, analyzing datasets with novel analysis approaches, manuscript preparation, and supervision of other biostatistical and scientific staff. Dr. Walker has overseen development of ACORN CRO's data warehouse for use in HOPE projects. He is highly regarded for his calm steady leadership by both key business partners as well as internal managers.  Dr. Walker joined ACORN CRO after eight years on the faculty of Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, where he developed a popular introductory course in biostatistics directed at medical fellows and junior faculty researchers. As a licensed psychologist, he worked clinically with breast, lung, and head and neck cancer patients at Siteman Cancer Center in St. Louis regarding adjustment to cancer and smoking cessation, particularly among cancer patients. He is a frequent consultant on issues related to research design and statistical methods. 
Will A. Sullivan, MBA, BS Will A. Sullivan, MBA, BS
Senior Director, Bioinformatics and Quality Assurance
Will brings a wealth of experience to ACORN following more than 25 years in the pharmaceutical industry. Will has worked in the global market, developing groups from concept to implementation. His Quality Assurance role is enhanced by his expertise in several disciplines including Clinical Operations, Statistics, Statistical Programming, Clinical IT, Product Safety and Risk Management, and Data Management which will ensure quality deliverables, on time and within budget. Will holds an MBA from West Virginia University and a Bachelors of Science degree in Computer Science from Northern Kentucky University. 


Amanda L. Epperson, RN, CCRC

Amanda L. Epperson, RN, CCRC
Director, Project Management
Amanda brings over 25 year’s pharmaceutical research experience, in her role as Director of Project Management with the ACORN CRO division. She was one of the original founders of the first independent multi-specialty SMO in the Mid-South area, directing the clinical management and coordination of clinical trials with the highest quality. In 2004, Amanda joined ACORN Research, implementing processes for investigator initiated trials in community oncology network sites across the United States, distinguishing herself through her conscientious work ethic and establishing overall customer service as a cornerstone of our project management team. Currently overseeing the Project Management operations for ACORN CRO, Amanda brings high quality, understanding and much attention to detail on all projects. Amanda received her Registered Nursing Degree through Methodist University Hospital in Memphis and holds memberships in Associates of Clinical Research Professionals and the Drug Information Association.